The surprise retirement announcement from Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly on Tuesday night left everyone from fans to coaches to players in complete shock.
At the young age of 28, Kuechly joins a growing list of star players in the NFL aged 30 or younger who have retired in the last few years.
Named a seven-time Pro Bowler, Defensive Player of the Year and 7x All-Pro selection, Kuechly put together a Hall of Fame career in just eight short seasons.
Take a look at how notable players and coaches around the league reacted to the news on social media:
I had the privilege of playing next to HOF #MikeSingletary & coaching HOF @BUrlacher54 & @LukeKuechly is worthy of that honor someday. But more important I will remember Luke’s sense of humor, his leadership & 4 being a great teammate. pic.twitter.com/MM96l6vZSS
— Ron Rivera (@RiverboatRonHC)
January 15, 2020 Words can’t describe who Luke Kuechly is as a person, friend, and teammate. We have shared countless memories together both on the field and away from it. I feel honored to be his friend and I’ll always appreciate the impact he has had on my life. Love you buddy pic.twitter.com/0DHYkOwDp1
— Greg Olsen (@gregolsen88)
January 15, 2020 Thank you for some of the best memories both on and off the field. I’m so honored to have shared the field with not just the best player I’ve ever seen, but the best person I’ve ever met. Will always love you bro! To retirement----@LukeKuechly
— Christian McCaffrey (@CMC_22)
January 15, 2020 Luke doesn’t even have social media he is that different. I have to see him soon in person and pay my respect always fun to play against. Meetings were always a little longer, and gameplans a little more complex. He kept you honest.
— Michael Thomas (@Cantguardmike)
January 15, 2020 Congrats @LukeKuechly on early retirement. You were a fearless player out there on the field. Soooo....when are you coming back??
— Rob Gronkowski (@RobGronkowski)
January 15, 2020 I couldn’t be more proud to call you my brother! Congrats on a heck of a career! The game will miss you as much as you miss the game bro! I love you my brother! https://t.co/6jw3C1xeZK
— Thomas Davis (@ThomasDavisSDTM)
January 15, 2020 One of the greatest players of our time! -- @LukeKuechly Will never forget playing against you! Good luck in the future!! pic.twitter.com/OsCiFXHVPP
— JuJu Smith-Schuster (@TeamJuJu)
January 15, 2020 In the short time I have been here in Carolina it’s been a pleasure to learn from you and play with you. Will be missed-- #greatteammate https://t.co/L9Dbyh4yjU
— DJ Moore-- (@idjmoore)
January 15, 2020 One of the Best Teammates I’ve ever had! The 1st person you meet when you come into the locker room. Always told people I’d teach my son to be like you! You’re the model of The Standard! Future HOFer! Proud to call you one of the bros! One heck of a career! Love you bro! LUUUUKE! https://t.co/NcB3MQExMg
— Tre Boston (@TreBos10)
January 15, 2020 After playing with @PatrickWillis52 I didn’t think it was possible for me to touch the field with another LB of his caliber. Then I went to Carolina. Enjoy retirement @LukeKuechly!
— Eric Reid (@E_Reid35)
January 15, 2020 Luke kuechly is one of most pure and authentic people i’ve met! He was a great teammate and friend! honored to have played with you! The gridiron will miss your presence but I’m excited to see what the next chapter has for you! love you Bro! #KeepPounding pic.twitter.com/0a6k4urcRu
— Jonathan Stewart (@Jonathanstewar1)
January 15, 2020 Was a blessing being able to learn from you the last 5 years! Thank you for welcoming me with open arms into the LB room and showing me the ropes. Ima miss laughing and joking in the back of the room! Ima miss my locker mate, My teammate and MY BROTHER!! You the f’ing GOAT!! And the BEST DAMN LINEBACKER IVE SEEN AND EVER PLAYED WITH! You brought different swag to the game! Different energy, and Leadership to this team and Game! Im lost for words dawg! But health is the most important thing in life!! Im happy to call you a friend and Brother — enjoy retirement bro! #BTG #StandardIsTheStandard #LBC
